Themba Mkhwane

• Inspected facilities for adherence to fire, hazard, and safety guidelines.
• Conducted safety training and education to employees to increase awareness of safety hazards and empower employees to work safely.
• Inspected worksites, practices, and gear for compliance with established safety standards.
• Reduced accident rates with consistent monitoring of employee compliance to safety protocols.
• Improved workplace safety by conducting thorough risk assessments and implementing necessary control measures.
• Recognized, documented, and advised on removal of hazards.
• Promoted a culture of safety through engaging workshops and training sessions for employees on various topics such as hazard identification, PPE usage, and incident reporting.
• Conducted regular safety audits, identifying potential hazards and implementing corrective actions promptly.
• Increased employee awareness of potential hazards by creating informative signage throughout the facility.
• Conducted regular safety inspections and audits to identify potential hazards and prevent accidents and injuries.
• Provided guidance and resources to employees to maintain safety procedures and enhance protection.
• Ensured adherence to OSHA regulations, leading to a safer work environment for all employees.
• Investigated accidents and incidents to determine root causes and develop corrective actions to address underlying issues.
• Investigated incidents thoroughly, identifying root causes and implementing preventive measures accordingly.
• Responded to any emergencies as instructed and with utmost efficiency.
• Reviewed and analyzed safety data and statistics to identify trends and areas requiring improvement.
• Collaborated with other departments to integrate safety in all aspects of organization.
• Developed and implemented safety policies and procedures to establish clear guidelines for safe work practices and comply with regulations.
• Communicated safety performance and progress to management and employees to provide up to date information.
• Collaborated with management to develop site-specific safety policies, ensuring alignment with federal and state requirements.
• Streamlined accident reporting procedures, resulting in more accurate data for analysis and prevention efforts.
• Enhanced emergency response times by developing and executing comprehensive evacuation plans.
• Enhanced employee engagement in safety programs through interactive workshops and feedback sessions.
• Implemented safety measures that significantly reduced risk of occupational injuries and illnesses.
• Conducted safety equipment inspections, ensuring all gear met highest standards of quality and effectiveness.
• Fostered culture of continuous improvement in safety practices, encouraging innovation and employee feedback.
• Reduced environmental hazards by implementing sustainable waste management and pollution control practices.
• Developed emergency response plans, ensuring preparedness and swift action in critical situations.
• Customized safety training materials for different departments, addressing specific risks and procedures.

• Company Overview: A company contracted by SANRAL (South African National Roads Agency Limited)
• As a Safety Officer working for a company contracted by SANRAL (South African National Roads Agency Limited), my role is critical in ensuring that we comply with all health, safety, and environmental regulations. I take pride in managing the various risks associated with road construction and maintenance projects, knowing that the safety of our workers, the public, and the environment depends on it.

1. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

• Enhanced workplace safety by conducting regular inspections and identifying potential hazards.
• Ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and relevant construction regulations.
• Adhere to SANRAL's specific health, safety, and environmental (HSE) requirements.
• Conduct regular audits and inspections to verify compliance with legal and contractual safety requirements.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of SANRAL's policies and changes in legislation affecting construction safety.

2. Risk Assessment and Management

• Perform detailed risk assessments for all project activities, especially high-risk tasks like working near live traffic, operating heavy machinery, and handling hazardous materials.
• Develop and implement site-specific safety plans, including traffic management plans, as per SANRAL guidelines.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with road construction activities, including working at heights and in confined spaces.

3. Training and Awareness

• Conduct safety inductions for all workers and subcontractors, ensuring awareness of site-specific hazards and SANRAL's safety standards.
• Facilitate toolbox talks, safety drills, and ongoing training to promote a culture of safety.
• Educate workers on emergency procedures, including traffic accidents and fire response.

4. Incident Investigation and Reporting

• Investigate all accidents, near-misses, and incidents to determine the root causes and prevent recurrence.
• Prepare detailed incident reports for submission to the company and SANRAL.
• Ensure corrective actions are implemented following incidents.

5. Monitoring and Enforcement

• Regularly inspect the site for unsafe conditions, hazardous practices, and compliance with safety policies.
• Enforce the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety protocols.
• Ensure proper maintenance and safe operation of all equipment and vehicles.
• 6. Communication and Coordination
• Act as the primary liaison between the contractor and SANRAL for all safety-related matters.
• Attend and participate in SANRAL's safety meetings and briefings.
• Coordinate with engineers, project managers, and other stakeholders to align safety objectives with project goals.
• 7. Emergency Preparedness
• Develop and implement emergency response plans tailored to the site and SANRAL's standards.
• Ensure availability and functionality of first-aid equipment, fire extinguishers, and evacuation plans.
• Coordinate with local emergency services for rapid response when needed.
• 8. Documentation and Reporting
• Maintain detailed records of inspections, audits, training sessions, and incidents.
• Submit regular safety performance reports to the company and SANRAL, including progress on addressing any non-conformances.
• Ensure all safety documentation is readily available for SANRAL audits.
• 9. Environmental Management
• Enforce environmental protection measures as required by SANRAL, such as waste management, erosion control, and spill prevention.
• Monitor compliance with environmental impact assessments and manage potential environmental risks.
• 10. Promoting a Safety Culture
• Encourage worker participation in safety initiatives.
• Lead by example in adhering to safety standards and demonstrating a commitment to a safe working environment.
• A company contracted by SANRAL (South African National Roads Agency Limited)
• Key Challenges
• Managing safety in high-traffic and high-risk environments.
• Balancing project deadlines with strict adherence to safety standards.
• Coordinating multiple contractors and stakeholders under SANRAL's guidelines.

• Skilled in providing efficient administrative support including management and organization of files, documents, and records, while effectively utilizing computer systems.
• Proficient in scheduling, coordinating and managing meetings, conferences and appointments with attention to preparing agendas and minutes.
• Expertise in managing both incoming and outgoing correspondence via emails, letters, and packages along with drafting and editing documents and reports.
• Experienced in assisting with travel arrangements including booking flights, hotels, transportation, and itinerary preparation.
• Demonstrated excellence in greeting and assisting visitors, ensuring they are directed to the right department upon arrival.
• Adept at managing office supplies and equipment for smooth office operations. Involved in maintenance and repair of office equipment, as needed.
• Competent in processing and maintaining records, allowing a well-organized filing system for important documents, invoices, expense reports and financial documents.
• Collaborative team player, providing support to team members and coordinating with multiple departments for enhanced organizational productivity.
• Proficient in handling confidential and sensitive information with utmost discretion.
• Strong involvement in special projects including event organization, research facilitation, and marketing campaign assistance.